Warning: Details included in this story may be disturbing to some readers. Discretion is advised.
A video circulating online that shows a dog being swung by its leash and used as a weapon during a roadside fight in Dartmouth is being investigated by police.
In a news release Saturday afternoon, Halifax Regional Police said they were called to a report of a fight between four women in the 600 block of Windmill Road on July 1 at around 5:30 p.m.
Police say the fight started after two women in one vehicle confronted two others in a second vehicle after allegedly being cut off in a drive-thru.
READ MORE: Woman dies in single-vehicle highway crash in Kings County
Police say when they arrived, those involved didn’t want to pursue charges.
“There were initial reports of a dog being involved but the extent was not clear at the time,” police said in the news release.
“Officers checked on two dogs in one vehicle while at the scene and they appeared to be in good health. The severity of actions against the dog were not known at the time.”
Police say they later became aware of the video circulating online showing a dog being swung by its neck during the fight.
READ MORE: Woman facing charges in connection with collision in Fall River
“Halifax Regional Police are continuing to investigate the mistreatment of the dog,” police said. “The investigation is in the early stages and updates will be provided when they are available.”
On Monday, Cst. John MacLeod, a spokesperson for HRP, said in an email to Global News that the incident remains under investigation and that “charges are expected in this case”
Anyone with information on the altercation is asked to contact Halifax Regional Police or Crime Stoppers.
‘It’s not OK’
Brenda Gerrior, an animal rights activist based in Halifax, says she was flooded with messages Saturday morning informing her of the video.
As soon as she saw it, she called the authorities.
“I’m just not sure what would bring someone to that point where they would do something so horrific,” said Gerrior. “I just couldn’t believe it.
“If you have an issue with another person, then fine, take it out on that person. But there’s absolutely no need to take it out on the dog.”
After calling the police, Gerrior learned the authorities were not aware of the video prior to Saturday. She was also told police have the contact information of the two women involved in the altercation.
She’s hoping the investigation leads to charges.
“The reason why I stand up for animals is because they don’t have a voice for themselves,” said Gerrior. “I don’t want people to think that it’s OK to do this type of thing and people are just going to look at it and pass it by.
“Animals don’t deserve to be treated like this and I’m here to let people know that it’s not OK.”
Comments